Windows

General discussion

IM on Company Networks

My CIO wants me to install both MSN and ICQ on our network for each user. I do not think that this is a good idea for security reasons.

Can anyone help me out, I want to know what kind of security holes these programs have. What harm can they do to the network, if any? Can people hack into a machine through any of the information sent out by IM's?

Am I being paranoid, or is there a real security threat.

We are running a Win NT 4.0 Server, with msproxy 2.0, and Win2k clients.

IM on Company Networks

IM on Company Networks

Let me stress this, ***ANY*** third-party application is potentially vulnerable, exploitable, and therefore can open your system (or the system it's loaded on) to root attack and compromise.

Three words for your boss' request: just say no.

Best case scenario: have some in-house developers write a small application that does the same thing, only internally, and doesn't go outside at all. Then he gets what he wants, and you get the protection you require. Is that a simple solution? No, but it is superior to his.

IM on Company Networks

IM on Company Networks

I am one of our company's system adminstrators. Just recently did we decide not to install IM, ICQ, or MSN chat utilities on our network.

Depending on which one is used, the software can transform itself into a high performance virus replicator (attachments). You cannot backup or create an audit trail for transactions that happen over IM and therefore cannot protect the company. Most company's would like to protect their transactional information and AOL IM bypasses all of the tools usedto do so. Additionally, most of the IM traffic is non-business related and represents a distraction to the user's job.

My Company feels that the best method for electronic business communications is E-mail. It is backed up, it is scanned for viruses (which our company catches on average around 10 to 15 per day at a minimum) and it is reliable. I would recommend that you recommend that means of communication for your comapny. It not only protects your customers but helps your companies productivity.

If it comes down to an install, I would highly recommend using AOL's AIM Express. There is no download and no installation required. It is all html! Just search for AIM Express at MSN.com

Start or search

Create a new discussion

If you're asking for technical help, please be sure to include all your system info, including operating system, model number, and any other specifics related to the problem. Also please exercise your best judgment when posting in the forums--revealing personal information such as your e-mail address, telephone number, and address is not recommended.

Post type

Subject title

Topic Tags

Select up to 3 tags (1 tag required)

Cloud

Piracy

Security

Apple

Microsoft

IT Employment

Google

Open Source

Mobility

Social Enterprise

Community

Smartphones

Operating Systems

Windows

Mac

Malware

Tablets

Networking

Browser

Hardware

Software

Web Developerment

Linux

Off Topic

Message Body

Track this discussion and email me when there are updates

Please note: Do not post advertisements, offensive material, profanity, or personal attacks. Please remember to be considerate of other members. If you're new to the TechRepublic Forums, please read our TechRepublic Forums FAQ. All submitted content is subject to our Terms Of Use.